The National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in Kuru was meant to be a sanctuary for strategic thinking and national leadership development. But in the early hours of Tuesday, June 17, 2026, it became the scene of a deadly midnight attack that has left participants of the Senior Executive Course 48, 2026, traumatised and questioning their safety.
How the Attack Unfolded
While participants of the prestigious Senior Executive Course 48 — a programme designed for top government officials, military officers, traditional rulers, and technocrats — were deep in their studies and rest, heavily armed gunmen stormed the staff quarters. The assailants engaged security personnel in a fierce gun battle, killing two soldiers and one police officer on duty.
The sound of rapid gunfire and explosions shattered the quiet night. Some participants reported hearing screams and the chaos as the attackers attempted to penetrate deeper into the institute before being repelled by responding security forces. Though the attackers were eventually forced to retreat, the assault left an indelible mark on everyone present.
The Fears of the Participants
For the men and women undergoing the intensive Senior Executive Course 48, the attack brought home the harsh reality of Nigeria’s insecurity in the most terrifying way. Many had left their families and duties behind to focus on national policy and strategic leadership, only to find themselves caught in the crossfire of a deadly raid.
Government and Security Response
In response to the incident, security agencies have moved swiftly. The Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the North Central Zone, Mohammed Bala Ishaq, visited the institute and assured staff and participants of adequate protection.
He emphasised that security deployments within and around the institute have been significantly strengthened to prevent any recurrence. Additional personnel from the military, police, and other agencies have been deployed, with enhanced intelligence sharing and perimeter security now in place.
Vice President Kashim Shettima also visited NIPSS for an on-the-spot assessment, commiserating with the bereaved families and reassuring the NIPSS community of the Federal Government’s commitment to their safety.
A Sobering Reminder
The attack on NIPSS during the Senior Executive Course 48 has become a national talking point, highlighting the vulnerability of even the most strategic national institutions. As investigations continue and security is beefed up, participants are being urged to remain focused on their studies while security agencies work to ensure no further threats emerge.
The incident serves as a stark reminder that insecurity in Nigeria does not spare even the places where the nation’s future leaders are being prepared.
